Human papillomavirus vaccination and its effect on genital men’s health. Considerations for a public health strategy

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted disease worldwide. Very little is known about the effect of HPV on men’s health. It is estimated that it is one of the most critical causes of penile cancer worldwide, representing a considerable percentage of the cases. We aimed to review the information on HPV vaccination strategy plans worldwide and the effect on male genital health. Studies on the outcomes of countries that include males in HPV vaccination programs and what the result will be in those that do not indicate favorable data in terms of preventing disease and thus the cost-effectiveness of gender-neutral HPV vaccination in most high-income countries (HIC) as well as in low-to-middle income countries (LMIC), considering HPV universal vaccination as a public health strategy. Vaccination of men against HPV is an effective strategy to prevent the development of genital cancers in this population.